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Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
- Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star tip for classic swirled butter cookies. Alternatively, roll the dough into small balls for simple round cookies.
- Pipe or press the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Add Toppings
- Once the cookies are cool, you can dip them in melted chocolate and sprinkle them with nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt for added flavor and decoration.
- Alternatively, sprinkle a little sugar on top of the cookies before baking for a sparkly finish.
Tips for Perfect Butter Cookies:
- Use Softened Butter: Ensure the butter is soft but not melted for the best consistency. Leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft to pipe or shape, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes to firm it up.
- Piping Precision: For a professional look, use a star tip to pipe the dough into swirls or rosettes. Practice on parchment paper before piping onto the baking sheet.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking, as they can go from golden to overdone quickly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, so there’s no need for a special trip to the store.
- Quick to Make: From start to finish, these cookies are ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite flavors or toppings, such as lemon zest, almond extract, or cocoa powder.
- Perfect Texture: Buttery, crumbly, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Serving and Storage:
- Serving: These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of milk. They also make excellent holiday treats or gifts when packaged in a decorative tin.
- Storage: Store butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this Butter Cookies Recipe is a surefire winner. It’s quick, easy, and guarantees a batch of buttery perfection every time. Enjoy these classic cookies with friends, family, or just as a well-deserved treat for yourself!
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